For Sale: 1948 Harley Davidson UL in Charlotte, North Carolina

SUMMARY

Logged zero miles since a full, highly accurate restoration

Restored with a roster of NOS parts

Original, VIN-matched 74 cubic inch flathead

Correct 4-speed transmission

NOS exhaust

NOS wheels

NOS seat

Era-correct scallop stripes

It's hard to think of a singular brand, inside or outside the automotive realm, which enjoys the same cult following as Harley-Davidson. Over the years, the storied builder of America's most coveted bikes has fully tapped our culture, inspiring t-shirts, tattoos and even other vehicles. In short: Harley-Davidson is more than just a motorcycle, it's a lifestyle. That said; it's the motorcycles that keep enthusiasts coming back. Nearly every year, model, frame and engine has its own set of diehards that swear by a particular Harley vision. But, no matter your preference, it's hard to deny the significance of a sweet bike like this 1948 UL Flathead. Restored by one of the best Harley gurus in the country, this world-class scoot is a shining example of why every gearhead loves a HOG. And if you're in the market for a little 2-wheel royalty, it's your first-class ticket to open road freedom!

APPEARANCE

Originally introduced in 1938, Harley-Davidson's UL Sport Solo line ran the gamut from broad-shouldered cruiser all the way to commercial utility bike. Lovingly restored, and kept on permanent display, this lust-worthy UL hasn't logged any miles since the last wrench was turned on its NOS Harley hardware. A mirror-like coat of black paint serves as the foundation for era-correct scallops that are detailed with red pin striping. At the front of that pigment, the dark vibes start with an NOS Harley fender, which parades NOS Harley trim and an NOS Harley light in front of a correct fuel tank. Simple and classically shaped, that attractive tank, equipped with a factory dash, breaks perfectly in to an NOS buddy seat that's propped on NOS buddy springs. That saddle hangs over a second NOS Harley fender that centers an NOS tombstone taillight behind an NOS Harley bumper. And overall, this UL features classy, retro-cool aesthetics that are sure to age just as well as their high quality components allow.

ACCESSORIES

Restored to mix timeless visuals with a roster of components that was tirelessly hoarded over many years, this HOG is a virtual Case Study in authenticity. Up front, a correct Springer fork rides between an NOS Beck headlamp, NOS Harley handlebars, NOS Beck throttle grips and a polished brake handle that controls a correct brake system. Behind those bars, NOS Harley pegs, NOS Harley running boards and NOS Harley mats let the rider kick back, stretch his or her legs and chase the sun. Beneath those components, NOS Harley exhaust hangs a finned tip behind NOS Harley slinky covers. And cool bits, like a polished horn, a yellow kick pedal and a vintage fire extinguisher, show that someone really sweated the details.

CHASSIS

By the late '40s Harley had successfully recovered from the Great Depression and kick started civilian production on the coat tails of World War II. The 1948 model year would be the last to use the Springer fork, but little else changed when it came to the bike's foundation. And, naturally, this UL has been fully rebuilt to era-correct status all the way down to its NOS shock absorber. That stiff suspension is great at ensuring the rider gets an authentic feel for the road. There's an NOS Harley electrical system that works well with an NOS Harley accessory carb choke. And everything rolls on NOS Harley rims, which twist NOS Beck tires around NOS hubs and NOS cadmium spokes.

DRIVETRAIN

After almost two decades of manufacture, Harley had tweaked their flathead engines into well-tuned running gear. That said; 1948 would be the last year of the Big Twin UL, as it and the brand's wildly popular 'Knucklehead' were replaced by an upgraded V-Twin that would eventually earn the nickname 'Panhead'. That means this bike's original, 74 cubic inch flathead was an interesting rarity even in its heyday. Naturally, that VIN-matched powerplant is outfitted with an array of NOS components, including aluminum motor heads and old school primary covers. Electricity still takes the shape of a 6-volt system, which is augmented with a vintage-look gel cell battery. And behind that zero-mile motor, a correct Harley 4-speed processes commands from an NOS Beck gearshift knob.

In addition to great aesthetics, this incredible motorcycle provides an authentic riding experience that's sure to inspire memories for older bikers while creating plenty of adventure for young enthusiasts. Widely considered one of the most exclusive Harleys ever built, it only makes sense that a pristine example of the famed UL Flathead would make its way to the front of our legendary showroom. That means there's only one part of the story left to tell: the part where one lucky enthusiast rides their new classic in to a golden sunset.